When buying chairs for big and tall people, comfort is not just everything – it may be the only thing. The wrong chair could cause any number of problems, from fatigue to aches and pains, to severe loss of productivity and potential long-term problems.
There are certain chairs that are ergonomically designed to best suit those who fall under the “big and tall” categories.
Let’s understand what you should be looking for to get a chair that works for you.
Table of Contents
Who is Considered to be Tall and Big?
According to the CDC published National Health Statistics reports from 2018:
- The average height of US males is 5 feet 9 inches.
- The average height of US females is 5 feet 4 inches.
Based on this, any man or woman above 6 feet in height would qualify as “tall”.
Also:
- The average weight of a US male above 20 years of age is 197.9 lbs.
- The average weight of a US woman above 20 years of age is 170.6 lbs.
Tall and big people are classified in terms of normal weights based on BMI ranges, which should be between 140 to 177 lbs. for people who are 6 feet tall.
However, for the purpose of choosing a chair, big and tall people can be classified as those who stand more than 6 feet tall and weigh above 213 pounds – which is the upper limit of being overweight for people of that height. With a bit of allowance, standard chairs are designed to comfortably support a weight of 250 lbs.
For big and tall buyers, chairs should allow for supporting weights between 275 to 500 lbs. We have used those criteria in our choice of chairs.
How Do You Decide on Chairs that Work Best for Big and Tall People?
Let’s start with the basic characteristics for a comfortable chair. We short list eight primary areas and a few secondary features to consider.
Primary Attributes – Must Haves
The eight primary considerations are:
1. Maximum Weight Capacity
With big and tall people, the weight being put on the chair overall could be even double that of the 250 lb. normal threshold we mentioned above. The ideal chairs may need to support more than 300 lbs. – and as much as 500 lbs. – of body weight comfortably.
2. Maximum Seat Height
Ideally, people should be able to sit up straight, with their legs folded at a right angle (900 angle) at the knees, and with feet comfortably planted on the floor – without having to fold their legs. The average tall and big person will typically need a chair whose seat height is at least 19-20 inches off the ground.
- Every additional 2-3 inches in height will normally require the seat height to go up by an inch. For example, a 6 ft. tall person needs a seat height of 19 inches; whereas a 6 ft. 3 inches tall person requires 20 inches; a 6 ft 8 inches tall person requires 22 inches; and a 7 ft 3 inches tall person requires 24 inches in height.
In general, the best solution would be to find a chair whose maximum height is above 24 inches but which height can be adjusted to suit your specific requirements. Even the seat height guidelines posted above are dependent on normal ratios between torsos, upper leg and lower leg. So, the best chairs should be adjustable.
3. Seat Depth
For big and tall people, the minimum seat depth should be at a minimum of 19 inches to accommodate their long upper leg (femur) bones. Otherwise, their seating posture would be compromised one way or the other.
4. Seat Width
Just as with depth, the average big and tall person is likely to have a wide seat and will need space to spread out and comfortably rest their thighs. A tall person should look for seat widths in excess of 19 inches – someone who is above 250 lbs. should probably look for seats at least 24 inches in width.
5. Height and Width of Backrest
The height of the backrest may or may not be important, but it depends on the type of chair you are looking for. If the chair has a headrest, especially one that cannot be detached, the height of the backrest is crucial. A big and tall person could become very uncomfortable sitting on a permanently attached, non-adjustable headrest sitting on top of a short backrest.
If, on the other hand, there is no headrest, the height needs to be sufficient to provide upper back support. Backrest heights should be at least 20 inches.
If the headrest is included, sit on the chair and make sure that it’s height can be adjusted to where the bulge can align properly with the cervical spine and/or the back of the head.
Finally, the backrest width also needs to be sufficient to support a wide torso – usually 20+ inches is an acceptable width.
6. Backrest Tilt and Incline
Chairs for big and tall people are subjected to significant torque and tension – this means that the backrest can be steadily bent back with use if not properly supported. Backrests that bend too much are bad for the users, while those that sit rigid upright are equally so.
The best chairs for big and tall people should feature adjustable lumber supports and a tilt-and-lock mechanism that allows you to fix the backrest in positions where you can sit comfortably without causing damage to your spine or back muscles.
7. Balance
This is an underrated quality. With chairs whose adjustable seats can be placed up to two-and-a-half feet off the floor, potentially with high backrests in some cases, the balance needs to be right and comfortable. The best chairs have been designed so that their centers of gravity are lower to the ground and the seat is comfortable without feeling wobbly.
8. Warranty
Given the potential wear and tear, and the possibility of defective components in a chair that requires some complex and competent assembly, warranty provisions are important to review.
Secondary Attributes – Nice to Have
In addition to the attributes described above, there are a few additional comfort areas that can be addressed by chairs designed for big and tall people. While they are not vital, these are characteristics that could end up being the difference between a good chair and a great chair:
1. Armrest position and extension
This can prove to be a very desirable feature over the long term. The bigger and taller you are, the better the chances that your arms may extend beyond the armrest provided on your chair. Also, the elbow and arm position will get cramped or fatigued if the armrest is either too high or too low, respectively.
The best chairs available will feature armrests that can both be extended, if needed, and be height adjustable for maximum comfort.
2. Mesh Back for ventilation
Bigger people may have a tendency to sweat more, which means that if the chair back is made out of a solid material, it may get warm and uncomfortable. Mesh backed chairs solve the problem by providing superior ventilation.
3. Padded seats
Foam or other padding could be a boon for big and tall people. Chair seats take on a lot of wear and tear and your own seat can benefit by a 4-6 inches padding.
4. Sturdy Frame
This should be obvious. If a chair is habitually supporting 275+ lbs. of weight, it needs to be made with a frame that will last – otherwise, you are looking at a chair that will get increasingly uncomfortable, not maintain its shape and pliability, and may not to be replaced at considerable expense after a relatively short period.
5. Stability of Base
Many chairs for office use are “rolling” chairs that are supported by rollers and casters. The sturdiness and stability of these components could make a big difference in terms of how the chair, as a whole, functions over time. Big and tall people are likely to put extra pressure – if it erodes or skews the base, you will need a replacement chair sooner rather than later.
Value EQUALS the Price You’re Able and Willing to Pay!
While it does make sense to be focused on finding all the great features described above, you should not forget to equate the price of the chair to the long-term value it provides you.
There are specialized, ergonomic chairs that cost $1000 or substantially more. These prices may well be beyond the budget of the average buyer.
Ultimately, you know your own body and are probably aware of chairs that have worked for you and those that have given you problems. The best bet may be to tick off the features that you really need for extended comfort, pick a few models that satisfy most of the requirements and then compare prices to see how to get the most bang for your buck on a Total Cost of Ownership basis.
Some Great Chairs for Your Consideration
The chairs below have been chosen based on the fact that they “check the box” on many of the characteristics outlined above. What price you are willing to pay must be weighed against not only the short term, but the longer-term benefits.
The items we describe below will typically retail for under $500, thus combining use, value and price in our estimation.
Ultimately, if you buy a cheaper chair that does not last very long and has to be repaired or replaced, you may do yourself a disservice. If you find a model that fits you perfectly, go for it!
Best Office Chair Big Guys
Read More: Best office chair under 500.
Note: We have compiled these 5 best big and tall office chair, based on these five important criteria: Support, Comfort, diversity, durability, and style.
1. Sadie Big and Tall Office Computer Chair
OVERVIEW
This chair stands out due to its combination of affordability, durability, and comfort – especially with regard to the backrest. The extended warranty period is also a big plus.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 400 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 20 to 23 inches
- Seat Width – 22 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 20.9 inches
- Back Width – 22 inches
- Arm Adjustments (Height) – between 5.9 and 8.4 inches
- Arm Adjustments (Width) – between 22.5 and 30 inches
- Back Support – adjustable lumbar control and extra lower back support helps those with lower back pain
- Cooling Mesh Back – breathable fabric around the back
- Rolling Chair – with smooth-rolling casters and durable wheels
- Warranty – 3 years
OUR TAKE
The Sadie Office Computer Chair checks off many of the boxes in terms of features. Among its most alluring features are (a) back support, (b) adjustable and adequate height for seat and armrest, (c) adequate seat width and depth and the (d) cooling mesh design.
Deemed suitable for weights up to 400 lbs., this chair is excellent for weights of up to 360 lbs.
The only drawbacks we find are as follows:
- The back seat doesn’t lock when inclined
- The chair may be difficult to assemble
2. La-Z-Boy Delano
OVERVIEW
This is one of the most popular La Z Boy designs. It has the executive look and feels coveted in business settings.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 400 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 22 to 25 inches
- Seat Width – 21.5 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 21 inches
- Back Height – 27 inches
- Arm Adjustments (Height) – Padded armrests that can be adjusted 3 inches
- Back and Seat Support – advanced ComfortCore and Memory Foam padding, ergonomic waterfall seat design.
- Warranty – 10 years manufacturers’ warranty
OUR TAKE
The La Z Boy Delano is one of the most popular models among big and tall chairs.
The only drawbacks we find are as follows:
- Does not possess the Pivoting AIR Lumbar Support technology that the La Z Boy Trafford possesses, albeit for a higher price
- The product has occasionally been cited for cheap casters and uncomfortable back design
Most of this chair’s parts are made from strong wood components giving the chair a bold and executive feel. With a strong and sturdy base and a wider sitting area, the chair attains optimum stability and can hold up to 400 pounds of weight. This makes it usable by anyone without having to worry about it breaking. ComfortCore Plus with an advanced Memory Foam layering system gives excellent cushioning for support and comfort.
3. BestOffice 500 lb. Office Chair – Best Big and tall office chair 500 lbs capacity
OVERVIEW
A standard office chair that is customized for big and tall people.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 400 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 20 to 23 inches
- Seat Width – 24 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 21.5 inches
- Arm Adjustments – not available
- Back Support – the chair has a 360 degrees rotation, and a lumbar massage facility built-in.
- Warranty – To be looked into.
OUR TAKE
This chair is considered to be a great model for standard use in offices and for managerial functions for big and tall people.
The drawbacks we spotted include:
- Problems with the back support and overall integrity of the chair
- The non-adjustability of the armrests
The most outstanding feature of this chair is its ability to hold up to 500 pounds of weight. The High-Back Big and Tall Office Chair is a big man’s chair as it features commercial big and tall components. It sports a high back design, a heavy-duty class-4 gas lift, full ergonomic structure, cushioned lumbar for efficient back support, and thick padding in the backrest, seat, and armrests.
4. Space Seating AirGrid
OVERVIEW
This is one of the featured chairs on many lists, due to its combination of durability and comfort.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 400 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 19.25 to 23.25 inches
- Seat Width – 19.25 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 20 inches
- Back Width – 20.75 inches
- Back Height – 23.75 inches
- Arm Adjustments – 2-Way adjustable arms with PU pads, height and width adjustable
- Back Support, Cooling Mesh Back – Breathable double Air Grid back; adjustable lumbar support.
- Rolling Chair – heavy duty dual caster base
Warranty – Lifetime warranty on key parts, including the pneumatic cylinder, control mechanism, base and casters. 3-year warranty on upholstery fabric and foam against wear and deterioration.
OUR TAKE
This chair delivers on a number of attributes for weights up to 400 lbs. – including support, comfort and adjustability and is moderately priced.
The drawbacks we find are as follows:
- While this chair is excellent for people above 6 feet 1 inches in height, it can present as too tall and rigid for people below 6 feet. So this is not a chair that can be readily shared with a family member of a friend.
- While there is a warranty on the pneumatic height adjustment cylinder, there are occasional problems on the use of that feature.
5. BrylaneHome Extra Wide Office Chair
OVERVIEW
This particular chair is suitable for big and tall women, with a chic look (plush orange finish) and plenty of space for seats and legs. Generously padded with memory foam and clad in plush leather upholstery, this chair is meant for the chic, executive woman.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 500 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 18.5 to 23.75 inches
- Seat Width – 24+ inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 19 inches
- Arm Adjustments – Fixed
OUR TAKE
This particular chair, advertised and designed for the big and tall working woman, usually lives up to its promise, especially in terms of accommodating height and weight. However, it may lack a few of the secondary details that people may seek, such as arm adjustment and a breathable back.
This chair is suitable for weights up to 500 lbs.
The drawback of getting this chair may be the cavernous frame and the high seat position – while men could often fit comfortably, women that are not necessarily “big and tall” may experience some problems.
6. basyx by HON Wave – Best office chair for heavy person
OVERVIEW
Users will often describe this as a chair built for larger people, as will be evident by its sturdiness and comfort factor.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 450 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 18 to 22 inches pneumatic seat height
- Seat Width – 22 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 19 inches
- Back Width – 23 inches
- Back height – 27.5 inches
- Arm Adjustments (Height) – between 3 and 9 inches
- Arm Width – fixed at 21 inches
- Back Support – fixed lumbar support, synchro-tilt, upright tilt lock and tilt tension
- Cooling Mesh Back – breathable fabric
Warranty – Limited 5 years warranty, can be extended
OUR TAKE
The Hon Wave chair covers most of the attributes required by big and tall people.
Prescribed for weights up to 450 lbs., this chair is excellent for weights close to it.
The drawbacks we have found, based on customer feedback and experience, are as follows:
- The padding on the arm rests and the seat has a tendency to fray and split
- Armrests are sometimes known to break
- Customer service is sometimes inadequate when something needs to be replaced
7. Boss B991-CP Heavy Duty Chair – Best heavy duty office chair
OVERVIEW
This is a standard use, heavy duty office chair that can bring stability and comfort in an office and business environment.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 400 lbs.
- Adjustable Seat Height – 19 to 22 inches
- Seat Width – 22,5 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 19 inches
- Back Width – 23 inches
- Arm Adjustments – fixed padded arms
- Back Support – spring-tilt mechanism to allow for adjustments
- Rolling Chair – with wide casters for added stability
- Warranty – Manufacturers’ warranty for parts, with exceptions built in, over 6 years
OUR TAKE
This is one of the classic office chairs suitable for big and tall people. It has enough features to be comfortable and long lasting, without the bells and whistles that may raise the price without necessarily providing the precise benefits that one may be looking for.
The drawbacks we find are as follows:
- The design, which does not allow for significant and customized tilting, may prove uncomfortable for extended use
- The warranty provisions need to be parsed for different parts and workmanship – the 6 year warranty overall may or may not be available across the various components of the chair
While most office chairs feature a 25” base, the Boss B991-CP raises the bar to spot a 27” wide base. This ensures that the chair feels more comfortable even for bigger and taller users. With the help of 3” wide casters, this chair moves around the office smoothly to facilitate multitasking or simply moving to different parts of the office. Swiveling around the chair is made easier and topple-free.
8. Serta Smart Layers
OVERVIEW
This chair is versatile, available in 8 different colors and with features that make it ideal for an office or conference room. Though not meant for really high weights, the chair does extremely well within certain parameters.
FEATURES
- Weight Capacity – up to 350 lbs.
- Seat Width – 21.25 inches
- Seat Overall Depth – 18.25 inches
- Other features – cushioned and elevated back rest; ergonomic adjustments; premium ultra foam; pocketed comfort coils, 360 degrees casters.
- Back Support – adjustable lumbar mechanism, deep ergonomic cushioning
OUR TAKE
This is a standard office chair which is suitable for most situations. It does extremely well across different spectrums of people in an office or conference room setting.
The drawbacks we find are as follows:
- The chair is not customized enough
- It does not have adjustable dimensions or lumbar support
Conclusion:
You don’t have to squeeze yourself in order to fit into an office chair that does not sustain all your comfort needs. This will lead to discomfort and body pains due to long periods of sitting in poor postures. Therefore, for the big and tall individuals, looking for a big man’s chair is the ultimate solution in settling your comfort needs. Enjoy your sitting experience.
What do you think of these top rated best big and tall office chair? Which big and tall office chair are you planning to buy? Please take a moment to leave a comment below.
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